Andy Rubin's consumer company, Essential Products, has been accused of trademark infringement. Spigen, a popular accessories maker, has sent Essential a cease and desist letter for using the trademarked branding. Spigen holds a trademark for the word 'Essential' that covers its consumer products lineup, which includes a range of battery packs and smartphone accessories.
Spigen says that Rubin's use of the Essential term will create confusion among consumers. The US Patent and Trademark Office refused trademark to Essential Products due to potential confusion between Essential and Spigen's existing trademark for its sub-brand.
"Threat letters are commonplace in our sector. While it’s Spigen's prerogative to make assertions, Essential believes they are without merit and will respond appropriately," a spokesperson for Essential Products told Android Police.
Rubin recently showcased Essential's first product, a modular smartphone with a bezel-less design called Essential PH-1 and is expected to ship in the next 30 days.